A bill put forward by State Senator Neil Anderson is now law. S.B 2130 is a law aimed at combating a shortage of Anesthesiologists in the state of Illinois. Anyone who has ever undergone surgery knows the incredibly important role that Anesthesiologists play in making sure surgery is performed safely, ensuring that patients are fully unconscious during major and minor surgical procedures. Unfortunately, the number of Anesthesiologists in the State of Illinois has been on the decline creating a workforce short on time and overworked.
“Anesthesiologists play an essential role in ensuring safe and effective medical treatment prior to, during and after medical procedures,” said Senator Anderson. “There is currently an anesthesiologist shortage across our state and my hope is through this new law, a new door will be opened for those wanting to practice this specific type of medicine without financial barriers.”
State Senator Anderson’s bill adds anesthesiologists to the definition of an ‘eligible healthcare provider’ under the Underserved Heathcare Provider Workforce Act. This will allow Anesthesiologists be become eligible for loan repayment and scholarship programs in the State of Illinois. Formerly an ‘eligible health care provider’ meant a primary care physician, general surgeon, emergency medicine physician, obstetrician, advanced practice registered nurse, or physician assistant. Governor J.B Pritzker signed S.B 2130 on Friday and it becomes law in January of 2024.
